Admission to this program has been suspended for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Program Mission and Purpose

The PhD in Urban Studies and Public Affairs program seeks to graduate scholars who are prepared to research, teach, and practice reflectively in positions related to urban studies and public affairs, in universities and public policy organizations. It aims for graduates to have a strong theoretical and methodological foundation within the field, together with the in-depth knowledge required to be able to recognize, identify and articulate the frontiers of scholarship within a specialization field. Successful completion of the degree means that the faculty has determined that you are able to construct, execute, and present scholastically sound, independent research of either a theoretical or applied nature that expands the frontiers of knowledge. Learn more about this program. »

Student Life

Many students in the program are returning to academia after significant experience in the workplace; many continue to work while pursuing their degree. Over half of our student body attends on a part-time basis. Nevertheless, the program places heavy emphasis upon continuing contributions by every student to the intellectual life of the program, the School, and the University. This includes participation in research projects, attendance at seminars, conferences, and workshops, and publication of on-going research.

Contact Information

Public Affairs Student Services Center
Telephone: (216) 523-7522 | E-mail: urbanprograms@csuohio.edu